Texas appeals court continues to block Abbott’s anti-trans DFPS order

Texas’ Third Court of Appeals issued an opinion on Monday evening that continues to prevent Gov. Greg Abbott’s anti-trans order to the Texas Department of Family and Protective Services.

The governor’s order directed the agency to investigate gender-affirming healthcare for trans minors as “child abuse.” This includes gender reassignment surgeries that are rarely if ever used on children, and reversible puberty blockers and gender-affirming hormone therapy that most doctors recommend for trans patients who are minors.

“In this case, the trial court reviewed the evidence and concluded that appellees had established a probable right to recovery on their claims,” the court’s opinion read. “It further concluded that the appellees had made a sufficient showing that allowing appellants to follow the Governor’s directive pending the outcome of this litigation would result in irreparable harm.”

A judge originally blocked the order earlier this month. Before it was blocked, at least nine families were under investigation as a result of the governor’s order, including Jane Doe, an employee of DFPS and a plaintiff in the case that was investigated by CPS after she raised questions about how the order would affect her trans daughter. 

Brian Klosterboer, ACLU of Texas attorney, said the order brings additional relief to their clients and young transgender Texans and their families across the state. 

“It is unconstitutional and wrong to target parents simply for providing the best possible health care for their kids, and we won’t give up until the politically motivated attacks on transgender Texans are permanently stopped,” Klosterboer said.